Samsung HL-R66W/67W series (2005 720p DLP)

The Samsung HL-R66W/67W series consists of five DLP TVs ranging from 42 to 61 inches diagonally. These are the entry-level models in the company's 2005 lineup, replacing the 2004 HLP-63W series. While the models in this series are similar to one another in most respects, there are some significant differences.

Upside: Unlike last year's entry-level DLPs, these sets incorporate Samsung's floating-screen design, which visually separates the bottom part of the TV from the main screen area. All models in this series use Samsung's latest fifth-generation light engine, with a DLP chip that has a native resolution of 1,280x720. This means that they should be able to display the full detail of 720p material, but they won't deliver as much detail with 1080i high-def and computer sources as the 1080p step-up models (see below). They also have a built-in ATSC tuner and a CableCard slot so that you can receive over-the-air and cable HDTV without additional equipment.

The 42-inch HL-R4266W ($2,500 list) has the most basic feature set of the series. It lacks the fine-pitch screen that the larger sets use, so its image may be slightly less sharp. Its connectivity is highlighted by an HDMI port, but it doesn't have the computer and FireWire inputs of its larger cousins.

The larger HL-R67W models include the 46-inch HL-R4667W ($2,700), the 50-inch HL-R5067W ($3,000), the 56-inch HL-R5667W ($3,500), and the 61-inch HL-R6167W ($3,800). They have all of the connectivity of the HL-R4266W but add an analog (VGA-style) computer input and two FireWire ports. The HL-R67W models also add Samsung's fine-pitch screen and the TV Guide EPG.

Downside: While they have superior feature sets compared to their 2004 counterparts, these entry-level sets cost quite a bit more than last year's low-end Samsung DLPs. They also lack the DVI inputs found on last year's models. Unlike LCD and LCoS rear-projection technology, DLP is subject to the rainbow effect, although Samsung claims the improved color wheels in these models will reduce the occurrence of rainbows.

Outlook: The entire series will be available in April, according to Samsung. If last year is any indication, these models will prove to be wildly popular. The company also offers two other lines of 2005 DLP TVs: the pedestal-based HL-R87W/88W series and the 1080p-resolution HL-R68W series. For more information on earlier iterations of Samsung's DLPs, please see our full review of last year's HL-P5085W.

Note: CNET has not yet reviewed any of the products in this series. This information is all based on preliminary specs from the manufacturer and is subject to change. We will update this write-up if the information changes or when we're able to publish a full review of a product in this series.